Methadone Testimonials
Bill, Destin FL March 2002 - methadone
Previously Addicted to: methadone
I have had five back surgeries over the last ten years and had learned how to mask the pain with all kinds of opiates. For the last seven months I had been on physician prescribed methadone. I had no idea what it was doing to me. My physician here in Destin, Florida told me that I needed two weeks in-house detox treatment since I did not want to take methadone anymore. Needless to say, I was devastated.
The Bible teaches me that if I will only seek, I will find. Having found much information on the Internet about Rapid Opiate Detox, I chose to pursue Florida Detox. One of the best decisions I have ever made. Dr. Sponaugle and his entire staff treated me with such respect and dignity. All went way beyond the necessary. It seemed as if I was in a ZERO DEFECT environment. As for the procedure, it was like a four day resting vacation.
I truly believe God sent me to Florida Detox to get my life back. It worked!!! I have such a motivation to keep it that way. As I see it, mind controlling drugs are a bondage used to prevent us from having a joy filled life. Jesus did not die on the cross for me or you to live our life in handcuffs The freedom I feel is awesome!!! I urge you, if you are being controlled by opiates, please give Florida Detox a call and they will help you make the first step to freedom.
Bill
Destin, FL March 2002
Tommy - methadone
Previously Addicted to: methadone
Dear Dr. Sponaugle,
How do I begin to tell you how grateful I am to you? Tommy is doing so much better since his hospitalization. Of course, he still has a way to go, but you have put him on the right path to good health. He always felt like a loser while he was going to the Methadone Clinic. You have helped to give him back his self-esteem. For this I thank you with all my heart. Rick, you’ve given us both a new lease on life. I believe firmly that God led us to you. You are truly a blessing! By the way, the day we left to come home, you prayed that Angels would help us. They did in the form of a lovely young woman who helped us in our struggle to get home.
John, Tarpon Springs - Methadone
Previously Addicted to: Methadone
Dear Mr. Kiefer:
With great conviction, I would like to take a few minutes of your time to share with you a life changing event in my life, that will impress upon you the invaluable presence of a physician and his company that you are privileged to be associated with and the many lives that are being changed and set free from a bondage that is not only physical, but mental as well.
In 1992 while driving with my son, I was broadsided by a drunk driver that had no insurance. My vehicle was totaled, but I was blessed by my son escaping serious injury. I wasn’t as fortunate as this accident initiated the beginning of my back problems. During this time, I had been running and participating in triathlons with my friend Dr. ****** and did not want to stop. With therapy and pain medication, I held up for 2 years. In 1994, I had my first back surgery at Helen Ellis performed by Dr. Sweeney. In 1995 after continual problems, I went to Shands in Gainesville to have more problems with my back discovered. Dr. McMillian put me thru a procedure and then intense rehabilitation. I continued to push my recovery so that I could run and keep up with my 60-70 hour workweeks, being the General Manger of an automobile dealership. I started going to a pain clinic in Spring Hill, FL near my place of business and the physician prescribed methadone to me. Initially I was alarmed, but he assured me it was a very effective medication. Well, it did work very well. No side effects and I was able to continue my hectic pace.
After close to 2 years on the medication, it started to bother me that I was still taking it. Thru much prayer and spiritually seeking God’s will, I immediately decided to discontinue the medication. I attempted traditional detoxification from the methadone, however, the withdrawal symptoms were too strong. Crushed both mentally and physically, I was at an impass.
Fate would have it that my mother was admitted to Helen Ellis for a heart condition. I ran into Dr. Sponaugle and inquired about the anesthesia technique for getting off of pain killers. God had answered my prayers. We scheduled the procedure and I must say that a great weight lifted from my shoulders. Your staff and Dr. Sponaugle were kind and professional. I was admitted on a Tuesday and discharged on Wednesday with normal withdrawal symptoms left over.
A few days after my discharge, I was readmitted to Helen Ellis as I had begun to experience severe burning in my upper stomach. Dr. Sponaugle and Dr. Durai felt I should see a gastroenterologist. They found a large tumor in my esophagus just above the stomach. Apparently the pain medicine (methadone) had been masking the pain. Since the particular cancer I had is difficult to detect and extremely malignant, I would have never known until it was too late. I believe with my entire being that God spared my life through Dr. Sponaugle. If it were not for your detox program, I would not be here today to tell you how grateful I am. As a local businessman who grew up in Tarpon Springs, I want to congratulate you on the great strides Helen Ellis has made over the last decade.
John
Tarpon Springs, FL
Anastasia, Gainesville, FL - Methadone
Previously Addicted to: Methadone
I am writing this letter to offer you my warmest thanks for the services which you provided to a member of my family who had been addicted to Methadone for several years . As you know, he elected to have the rapid detoxification procedure which you administered to him about one month ago. The procedure which took a few hours and involved a few days of hospitalization was a Godsend.
The family member who went through the procedure was desperate because of the pain that he had caused himself and other family members and because of the large amount of money that was being used to support his addiction. He had searched in many places trying to find a treatment source that he could handle and manage within his current life style. As fate would have it, we got on the Internet one night and your page regarding the detoxification procedure appeared without any input on our part. We can only assume that God was looking over us and sent us to you.
There is no question as to your professional expertise as evidenced by documentation of your training, degrees, board certification, and numerous affiliations with notable medical associations. But, only the people who have met you can attest to your generosity, your empathy, your unconditional concern, and the amount of caring that you provided. You are unselfish with the time that you give your patients and their families. At a time, when most physicians can provide only a few minutes of consultation, your lengthy individual attention to our needs involving several hours at a time was magnanimous.
Technically, Rapid Detoxification appears to work; but, what is most important and what contributes heavily to its success is your presence with all your warmth, confidence, and motivation to do all for your patients. You really believe in them and it is very obvious that you do. Thank God that you are lighting one light in the utter despair and darkness of substance abuse treatment.
Very sincerely and with warm regards,
Anastasia
Gainesville, FL
September 21, 2000
Deborah, Lockport, LA - Methadone
Previously Addicted to: Methadone
Dear Dr. Sponaugle and Rose,
I’m sorry it’s taken so long for me to write. Since we’ve last seen you we’ve had a lot to deal with at home. I am happy to say that John is now living in his own apartment and has been drug free for three months. John is a chef at a restaurant in Gonzales, LA and publishing some of his recipes for the owner of the business. We will be certain to send both of you some copies.
Dr. Sponaugle, please feel free to use me as a reference for the Neuraad program. I have spoken to a few mothers that I have met these last few months. As you know John was addicted to Methadone and other opioid drugs. At the time we sought your help, I was not aware of the intensity of John’s addiction, but with your help John was able to take that first step to recovery. I will gladly testify that your medical program is the best method and gift a parent can give their addicted child. There is no doubt that the medical procedure works. The strongest part of your program is your faith in our HIGHER POWER. Through you John was able to hang on to the wisdoms and strengths you passed on to him. Addicts tend to think God doesn’t love them and they turn away from their Savior. You and Rose continued to share your faith with John and I weeks after we had left. I will always feel very comfortable calling either one of you for guidance and a prayer when in need. To who ever reads this letter please know that you can trust your life or your child’s life in Dr. Sponaugle’s and Rose’s hands. They share their lives with you at the time of the procedure and continue to care about you forever. Seven months ago I listened to my heart and I put my son’s life in the hands of God sent individuals and I have never regretted my decision. My son needed extra help, but it was the Neuraad Group that gave him the chance to survive.
There are really not enough words or praises available to express my gratitude. To Dr. Sponaugle, Kim, and Rose, thank you and you will forever be in my prayers.
Sincerely Yours,
Deborah
Lockport, Louisiana, April 2000
Debi, Bradenton, FL - Methadone
Previously Addicted to: Methadone
I find myself on unfamiliar ground. I want to make this the most prolific thing that I have ever written. Yet, all that I can do is tell my story and pray that it touches just one soul.
About five years ago, I was diagnosed with an eye disease. I received many different drugs to treat this affliction. One of them was morphine. I was on 180 mg a day. This drug was necessary for me to take for the eye pain for about a 2 _ year time period. Time and time again, I was assured, by the pain clinic doctor that I would be weaned slowly down from this powerful narcotic when the time was right.
Yet, when the disease I had been suffering from went into remission, I was told to go to a Methdone Clinic. All I knew of methadone was that it was some sort of drug used for heroin addicts. I was handed a prescription paper with the words “Go to local methadone clinic for morphine detoxification.” I had no choice if I simply stopped the morphine I knew the horrible withdrawal that I would have to go through.
Off to the Methadone Clinic I went. I had always thought myself a fairly streetwise woman. Well, let me tell you in the next 2 years that I was in the methadone clinic I learned things that I never ever knew even existed. I had not led a sheltered life, by any means, but some of the things I was witness to, changed me drastically forever. The injustice of a person who was only following a doctor’s advice was a daily occurrence for me.
The clinic was constantly firing and hiring different employees. From the “dosing nurses” to the office workers to the drug counselor themselves.
The clinic has ONE doctor who oversees around 250 patients. This is the one clinic out of the few that he runs single handedly. I was assured by the clinic doctor that I would be detoxed in about a 6 month period. There was ALWAYS another problem or reason that I couldn’t go down on my weekly milligram amount. To even see this doctor in person took at least 2-3 weeks for an appointment.
I was started at 80mg. Later, I found it would have been wiser to not have ever walked through their doors. I began to worry about a car malfunction; for fear that I couldn’t get my precious dose for the day. I saw people come to the door of the clinic at exactly 11:03 am and they were turned away with a sneer and a grin. Dosing hours run from 5:30 am until 11:00 am. I was in terror of a hurricane because you have to go and find the mobile unit, to receive your dose. That is, if someone from the clinic came to work to drive it. It was always a secret place. I could go on and on about the terror of a daily methadone nightmare. It’s been known to be called “liquid handcuffs!” But, chances are if you are reading this you’re already familiar with a methadone, opiate, or heroin nightmare of your own. I understand. I have been there too!!!!
So, here I was, with this heavy on my mind and heart and in this monstrous mood at midnight. I couldn’t sleep so I was playing around on our computer and I hit the word “methadone,” search and all sorts of sites came up. All I can say is, it was by the grace of God that I hit “Florida Detox!!!!!!” That literally saved my life!
Dr. Sponaugle is the Chief of Anesthesiology of a hospital called Helen Ellis Memorial. He runs a program there called Florida Detox. He puts you completely asleep and gives you certain drugs that push the opiates out of your body. You are asleep for approximately 4-6 hours and you never feel a thing. Then you are awakened slowly, they monitor you in ICU for a day or so. All you really feel is weak and tired!!! Not too bad compared to cold turkey or even a slow methadone detox.
The fact that I had completely given up on the medical community was solid to me, yet, something told me to look into this. I found about how kind and decent these people were. Rose is the receptionist who usually answers the phone. She gave me the most kind and reassuring answers. I found out that Dr. Sponaugle is a Christian. He was wonderful to me. I was constantly reassured and things were explained to me before they were done. They have Dr. Butts, who works with them. He is their psychologist.
From the doctors to the nurses to the rest of the people there, they were all so kind and compassionate to me. There was never once where I felt like a drug addict. I was treated with dignity and with respect.
So, if you are looking for an answer to a daily drug problem, I suggest you logon or call ASAP!!!!!!!!! http://www.detoxmd.com.top.htm or phone 1-888-775-2770. I have never felt closer to God or my life. My family says everyday how much better I am as a mother and a wife. That is music to my ears!!! Please don’t worry that you won’t be treated right or accepted, these people are the answer to the prayer that I know all addicts pray!!!
Thank you for reading my lengthy letter.
Sue, Mississippi - Methadone
Previously Addicted to: Methadone
No love is greater than the love of a mother for their child. When they hurt, you hurt, when they are happy, you are happy, but when the evils of addiction take hold of your child, a mother is rendered helpless.
The drug becomes the most important thing and a caregiver, whether it be a mother, father, wife, sister or friend, cannot penetrate this hold. Thus we spent many anxious hours in worry, wondering what has happened to the person we love so much, and what can we do to help. As a mother, I can only speak of my experiences, but I feel there are many who are seeking help and trying everything like I did. First and foremost, there has to be a want to get off the drugs. He was taking Methadone 60mg/day. The withdrawals are so painful that he was not going to go the traditional method of hospitalization.
We began to seek an alternative and were led to Dr. Rick Sponaugle in Tarpon Springs, FL. We arrived on a Wednesday and met with Dr. Sponaugle for three hours. We returned to the hospital on Thursday at noon to begin the rapid detox. My son was asleep for 3-4 hours while his system was completely cleaned of all medication. He stayed in the hospital where he was constantly monitored for any change in vital signs.
The next morning upon my arrival, I found him to be weak, but no other problems. By noon he was sitting up and eating jello with no nausea, which is part of withdrawals. By 1:00 p.m., (24 hours later) he wanted to go outside in the sunshine so a nurse came with a wheelchair and rolled him out. By 3:00 p.m., he was standing on his own and still no stomach cramps, nausea or diarrhea. He was discharged a little over 24 hours after beginning the program. We returned to our motel to stay close by Dr. Sponaugle and his program. We stayed one more day and then returned home. All totaled, our time spent was from Wednesday to Saturday. He was off all medications and was not experiencing any of the problems that go along with withdrawals. He returned to work on Monday and is doing great. EMPHASIS ADDED
The big concern of everyone was what is he going to do about the pain after he comes off all medication. To the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ, he has little or no pain. I cannot say enough about Dr. Sponaugle and his program. We were treated by everyone at the hospital, as well as Dr. Sponaugle and his staff, with respect and a want to make this person well again attitude.
So often a person who is addicted to a drug is characterized as a “bad” person who does not deserve compassion and love. These people deserve more attention than anyone else. Did not Jesus teach us to care for the sick? My son is laughing again for the first time in over a year, and I can only say that my prayers were answered. God sent me to a fellow Christian who treated my son with expert medical knowledge and a loving willingness to make him well. If additional information is needed, please write me at *****@aol.com.
Sue,
Mississippi
Angela S. - Methadone
Previously Addicted to: Methadone
My reasons for writing this email is to give you the pros and cons for Rapid-Detox; even more the reasons for doing so at Helen-Ellis Hospital.
Though I didn’t have the procedure done myself, my sister did. I could go though 100 horrific stories of the drug abuse and actions that go along with it, but you already know about those.
Both my sister and I at one time were on Methadone. The nastiest of all opiates. We both detoxed in the same facility – Charter. We both didn’t sleep for 1 week straight. We were given little to no drugs for the painful process. It was a nightmare.
I once again don’t have to tell you why we both got back on Methadone, it’s an easy answer – we were drug addicts with no direction in life, except “I can handle this again”.
If only we had known about Rapid-Detox and Naltrexone. I can’t go back and predict what would have happened. I can only say that it would have been a hell of a lot easier.
My sister awoke with only leg cramps, for which medications were given as often as needed. There wasn’t anything that my sister complained of that fell on deaf ears.
Dr. Sponguale and his staff are God sent.
Rose, the precious lady that goes over the procedure in such detail, you wonder if you are the only patient there.
Kathy and Gary, the Doc’s nurses – I can’t say enough about the people. These are the ones that listen to your complaints, your aches, your anxiety and fear of the unknown. The are constantly available.
Then there is John, a man who who’s been there (everywhere) and is probably in the happiest time of his recovery. I don’t know how long John has been clean, years I’m sure. He will talk to you about anything, your past, your present, and future life.
There is a psychiatrist that is attentive as well. Asking questions and as they do, analyzing them.
What absolutely slaps you in the face is there is not one of these people that I have mentioned that would not drop what they were doing and hold your hand to truly listen. The hope this staff shares is incredible.
The one attribute I simply held on to, was that they were all christians. Now you may not believe in God but, if there is one, wouldn’t you want people taking care of you that have a relationship with him?
Now I haven’t mentioned any “Cons”, my reason? There simply are none.
Sincerely,
Angela S.
Larry, Alabama - Methadone
Previously Addicted to: Methadone
February 16, 2004
I have been to at least two other centers. I was in Bradford, close to my home in Alabama, I almost died there, and went straight back to Methadone. I tried another inpatient program as well. I never got anything from any of the programs before you. I came down to Florida Detox and you did more for me than any of the other programs. I was taking over 100mg of Methadone.
After the detox I felt a little weak, but other than that I had no withdrawal symptoms. I could sleep, I was comfortabl, and was back at work about a week after detox. You have the best program around. You are nicer and more compassionate than any others.
Thank you all for everything
Larry
Alabama
Susan W. - Methadone
Previously Addicted to: Methadone
I spent 20 years on Methadone. I tried cutting my dose. I made it once all the way. I was off Meth for 1 week and I started getting high. I got right back on Meth. I was sick of paying $85 a week, sick of the shame, sick of having someone else in control of my life. I was looking for a place to detox. I stopped using everything but weed and Meth 10 years before.
I found the least painful way, Anesthesia Assisted Detox for Rapid Detox. I found Dr. Sponaugle at Neuraad in Tarpon Springs, FL. Since I had been paying $85 a week for Meth plus buying extra at times, you come out saving money.
Dr. Sponaugle is a Christian and is very dedicated to getting people drug free. I had the detox procedure in October. You meet with the doctor for a couple of hours and later a psychologist for an interview. On the day of detox, you are given Valium to relax you. I don’t remember anything after the Valium. You spend the night at Helen Ellis Memorial Hospital in the Cardiac Telemetry Unit. The whole time you are connected to heart monitors and all the other equipment used in ICU. I awoke in the evening the next night. Feeling very relaxed. NO SYMPTOMS OF WITHDRAWAL, NO CRAWLY SKIN. After 3 days, I felt a little weak.
Dr. Sponaugle would call everyday. He would try to prescribe something if you have any discomfort. He also is constantly trying to better his program. So he really listens to what you have to say.
If you really want to detox, I would recommend you give them a call. They really care. You are treated as a person instead of a junkie. The only regret I have is that I did not do this sooner.
Charles, Moss Point, MS - Methadone
Previously Addicted to: Methadone
Today, I am happy to say it is one month that I have been free. Free from a prison that has no bars. For the past year I was addicted to methadone. I started using methadone on the streets and progressed to daily one hour trips to a methadone clinic. I thought that going to the clinic was the answer to slowly stop using. What I found out is that the clinic is a highly profitable business. If you are like I was then you know that creating your own plan is almost impossible. Today, I thank the good Lord above for not having to make that drive.
I owe a great deal of credit to my wife. She did all of the research that eventually led me to Florida Detox. The cost of the treatment was at first a concern, but after I started adding up eleven dollars a day, plus fuel and time, I quickly realized the payback. As everyone, that has experienced the power of addiction knows I could list many more reasons that support.
I began the treatment early the next morning. I was sedated and slept through the day. When I awoke I felt weak but I did not feel any of the awful withdrawal symptoms I had felt before. I stayed in the hospital for another day to regain my strength to travel. The last time Dr. Sponaugle visited my room I thanked him for what he does for people like me. His response was that God has a plan for me and to let him guide me. I want to thank Rose, for she truly allows God to speak through her. The concern for her patients is truly genuine and together she and Dr. Sponaugle are a great team.
After arriving home, I thought a lot about my experience and I just could not deny the feeling of being led to Tarpon Springs, FL. Today I feel great and I trust in God to help me with my recovery and show me his plan for me. Wow, now that’s just hard to believe that these feelings are coming from me!
Charles
Moss Point, MS
December 11, 2000
David - Methadone
Previously Addicted to: Methadone
I am a 49-year-old man who has been on some type of opiates for the last 22years, for the last 12 it was methadone (160 mg. Per day). I had no intention of getting off methadone at this time.
Except for the fact that, the Methadone Clinic in Knoxville, TN was treating me like a sub-human/non-person. They even refused to grant me extra take homes so I could go home for my Mother’s funeral. I was angry and frustrated because of this. I looked up rapid detox on the Internet, but told my wife I had no desire of going through what I had seen on TV. There was a man going through a rapid detox procedure in California. He was flopping on the hospital table like a fish. It was not what I wanted to go through! We were going to be in Florida for a while, so I looked up rapid detox in Florida. I read the information provided on the site (floridadetox.com) also, read the testimonials, I believe this was no accident.
I believe that God led me to Dr. Sponaugle and his team of professionals at Helen Ellis Memorial Hospital. I was guided to this great professional team of compassionate, caring, and loving people, headed up by Dr. Sponaugle. I called and talked to Michele and Rose. They had another team member, John call me back. John told me his story about being on methadone and going through the rapid detox procedure. He said it was nothing like what I had seen on TV. That Dr. Sponaugle has developed a procedure that is totally different then what I had seen. I made the decision then to cut this umbilical cord, and prison sentence of methadone and clinics.
We went to Tarpon Springs and talked to the driven man who is on a mission to develop the rapid detox procedure to perfection and to whom I owe my life, Dr. Sponaugle. All the while, I went through his rapid detox procedure, Dr Sponaugle kept me very comfortable during my stay at Helen Ellis Memorial Hospital. He used all the knowledge and medicine at his disposal. After I was released from the hospital, I was awestruck by the after care provided by Dr. Sponaugle and his team.
I was on the phone everyday for the next 20+ days, with Dr. Sponaugle, who made himself available to me and guided me through the problems which I encountered for being on methadone at high doses for 12 years. I called him during his dinner at home, while on vacation, during his working hours, and Dr. Sponaugle always talked to me. I will say that Dr. Sponaugle is a person, guided by God to perfect the rapid detox procedure. I can not put into words, how Dr Sponaugle and his professional team gave me back my freedom to choose, self-esteem, my marriage, and my life.
I do pray that any person who would want these things for themselves go to Dr. Sponaugle and his rapid detox, which I will say, is the best in this country. If any one would want to contact me, you can reach me through Rose at Helen Ellis Memorial Hospital.
To sum it all up I am free to choose and do as I please, thanks to Dr. Sponaugle and his team I owe my life.
I love you all,
David
grateful parent - Methadone
Previously Addicted to: Methadone
September 19, 2001
Dear Dr. Sponaugle,
I am a very grateful parent, my adult child, Tricia had her 28th birthday last week. I will try to tell the story that took place the last four years. I pray this will help others decide if Florida Detox is part of the answer to the life controlling problem one is seeking freedom from.
During the last few years I was alarmed every time I talked to Tricia. How close to death she has come. Tricia has a painful shoulder injury. During the last four years doctors prescribed pain medication, the strength increased to the addictive opiates. Tricia came to me two years ago and said the pain medication was out of control. She went into a detox hospital for seven days. Ten days out she relapsed. Five months ago Tricia was out of money, her addiction was costing about $1,600 a month, decided to ask for help again. She found a pain management clinic and made an appointment for the next day, the next two months were expensive and the injection-able medication for the detox from Oxycontin would be for up to six months at about $1,300 per month. Tricia’s doctor made the decision to change Tricia to Methadone, much less expensive. Tricia decided to go to a long term detox treatment facility to put her life back together, but the Methadone was very hard to detox from. The doctor at the long term rehab facility suggested a rapid detox for Tricia.
I went on the internet and started to study the facilities. I had been told of experiences from family members who went to a facility in New York, a 24 hour in and out, the patient was basically on their own. I was praying and asking God for guidance. I found Florida Detox, gave the office a call, the concern and care they permeated helped me with the questions we had.
Tricia had the procedure two and half months ago. The staff thoroughly screened Tricia for the detox procedure. We felt confident with Dr. Sponaugle and his staff, you would think Tricia was the only patient with the time and care she received. Every step of the way we were given information, medical assistance and emotional support. The procedure went as explained, about 4 hours, then Tricia was taken to Telemetry floor, where she spent the next two days. The next morning Dr. Sponaugle released Tricia and we stayed at a nearby hotel and kept in tough with Dr. Sponaugle. The next morning was Sunday, Tricia and I went to the morning and evening service at a local church, the afternoon was spent resting. Monday morning we returned to the hospital for a conference with Dr. Sponaugle to go over after care for the next few weeks. Tricia went directly into the long term rehab program. She is half way through and I will never forget the phone call in which Tricia stated “I must have been so out of it Mom!” My daughter has returned from the hell of addiction.
The after care by Dr. Sponaugle is an ongoing treatment with his detox patients. He has Tricia on a pain medication for her shoulder that is not addictive. He walks his patients through the [following] months after care. Each patient is treated with their special needs. Dr. Sponaugle monitors the physical and mental needs. I can assure you that you are in the very best hand with Florida Detox. I must also add that Dr. Sponaugle is a born again believer and trusts in the Lord Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit to discern and give care for his patients.
| Sat Mar 04, 2006 7:11 pm Post subject: My Experience With and Opinions of Florida Detox | |
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| This was my experience with as well as my personal opinion of Florida Detox:Once I knew I would be going for Detox and was given the date, I was excited but petrified at the same time. My need for Detox was pretty extreme. (my story leading up to the need for Florida Detox is posted in another area ) after 15 years of extremely high doses of opiates, at this point I had been on 180mg of Methadone for the last 3 of those years. I was no stranger to attempting every possible method of discontinuing opiod use. My biggest fear is probably the possibility of ever facing withdraws again. I swore for years if I could just get through the withdraw part; I would never put anything remotely close to an opiate in my body ever again. I think one of my worst experiences was when I was taking 1,000mg of oxicontin and I attempted to kick them. I went a full five months with out taking anything and even after five months I was still extremely sick. I could not tolerate it any longer. No one seemed to know what to do or how to help me so I knew I could not continue living that way.There is a long time line between then and my Detox. I mentioned the above because if anyone reading is skeptical, I understand skepticism just as much as anyone. I could not conceive how it was possible to do in a few hours with 180mg of methadone, that which I could not do over a five month period several years prior. After learning methadone is probably the hardest of detoxes, in addition to the amount I was taken and the length of time I had been dependant on all of it, plus my many attempts over the last few years to search for help, I had it drilled in my head by several different doctors that I needed to accept the fact that I would never live a day with out needing medication. I was told my body was too far gone and it would never begin to produce what it needed to on its own.I had given up all hope until I stumbled across Florida Detox online one day searching for some new research for opiate dependency. After my first phone call to them, it was very clear that I had finally found help. I laid everything out on the table and even specifically asked why they felt they could do in a few hours ect.. (as I said above) It was explained to me in detail what they do, why it works and why I was unable to accomplish all my attempts. I talked to this person the first time for what had to be over two hours. Never once was I made to feel like I was bothering her. This was after hours, I know she wanted to go home and I probably kept asking the same things over and over. She never faltered. When I hung up the phone, I felt like I had just talked to my best friend.
Jumping ahead to the morning I arrived at the hospital; I of course knew better but each nurse, staff member, and every one else I came in contact with made me feel like I was their only patient. I felt safe and as big of a chicken as I am, I was enjoying the company of everyone and actually smiling instead of the pure panic I felt when I first got there. Okay, back to the I.V. I really can not tell you too much after that for the next day almost two. I do remember waking up a few times through what I assume was the actual procedure. I remember sitting straight up (which is normal for me I do it at home if I wake in the middle of the night) and looking around. I was not in the same room as when I went to sleep. I remember it being much bigger and I remember there being a line of beds. I again assume these were the people detoxing the same time as I was. When I sat up, I was in no pain..I really felt nothing bad. I was surprised. I think I remember saying to the anesthesiologist “oh, it is not over yet, is it? and I laughed. He was at my side immediately making sure I was okay. He laughed too (I think-its kind of foggy) and I was immediately put back to sleep. I also remember looking around me at the other beds and patients in them. Everyone was just sleeping. There was no movement or anything going one. It was very peaceful. I am pretty sure I woke up like I did due to my very high tolerance but I can not swear to that. When I woke up and the procedure was over, I was back in my room and perfectly comfortable. I honestly did not expect to be so comfortable but I can not complain about anything. I do not remember the first day much. I pretty much slept. The next day I awoke and things were clearer. Once again the care and treatment I received is not easy to describe. These people go above and beyond what is needed to even be considered a good staff. You know in your head that they have other patients and that they have had patients in and out of the same bed you are laying in, yet I personally felt so important and safe. I stayed an extra day due to some diarrhea. They really make sure you are okay before you walk out of the hospital. I really do not remember any negative things to tell those of you reading this. I know I requested valium at different times because I wanted to be as relaxed as possible and rest as much as I could while I was there. Even after all the positive experiences since I was checked in, I think I still was afraid of feeling pain and that caused me some anxiety. I believe that it was due to my own personal fears. I do not think it was the Detox. The nurses were always there immediately if I needed anything and even if I did not they just made sure I was comfortable physically as well as in a good place mentally. And that I was. I was extremely happy. When I did come home, I was sent home with meds to get me thru any further withdraws. This is all done on an individual basis. I had some limb aches and some lethargy but if you have ever experienced withdraws. Trust me, these were very welcome aches and I even laughed about it. I could not believe I was opiate free for the first time in 15 years and I was not praying for death. I was up walking around, happy, and for the most part Pain free. Before I go, I would like to just add a few things. I am not in the medical field so what I write is from my own personal experience and from things I have researched and learned along the way. If you are here reading this because you are considering this procedure I would like to point out a few things. UROD has been related to many horror stories. Please do you research and learn all you can. If you are coming to Florida Detox, I can tell you with out a doubt you will be in the best of hands. Dr. Sponagule is, in my opinion, the most incredible doctor there is. You will see that for yourself after your first 5 minutes with him. I can not stress to you enough that this is more than his job. He truly cares about his patients. He strives continuously to learn and do research and find the best way to give you the best treatment possible. His knowledge alone stands him out from any doctor I have ever had contact with. That is no small accomplishment considering the doctors I have seen over the years. I could go on and on about him but you will see for yourself after you meet him or even if you talk with him on the phone. His staff is no less unique than he is. You will not receive better care anywhere else you go. You may find a place who will promise you all I am telling you about. I am sure if you do your research and find past patients to other places that take you in and toss you out a few hours later, you will not find happy, healthy, or sober people. I can personally tell you that your care here is second to none. I am sure there might be other places that are sure to be safe and even follow up with you but I have never heard of any place that can come close to what Dr. Sponagule gives his patients. He honestly goes above and beyond what I am pretty sure is required by him in order to do these detoxes. Scary as it is, there are doctors out there performing this procedure and sending you home the same day. These places censored people in so easily because their cost is so low. These are the places that cause the horror stories you hear about. These are the places that cause deaths and instead of the truth that the patient was not given proper care and it was the fault of the facility. UROD takes the rap. Patients of Florida Detox could not receive better care. Dr. Sponaugle interviews you in detail prior to your procedure. He is knowledgeable on advanced issues dealing with brain chemistry and much more. After your procedure he makes sure you get the best after care. Tests are run and he does all in his power to find and treat any problems you may have outside of your dependency. These things are so crucial in really getting healthy and staying sober. For these reasons, whether you come to Florida Detox or go somewhere else please be safe and do not settle for less than the absolute best care. UROD got me through my withdrawls as I prayed for over and over for years but it was the knowledge and concern of Florida Detox/Dr. Sponaugle that I contribute the ability to get my life back. |
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| Clean from Methadone, 14 months (posted on Dr Phil board) | |
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| tepolmUser Mood HappyMessage Emote October 10, 2005, 11:05 am PDT Message for Florida Detox PresentationMy 26 year old son has been clean for 14 months following his detox off of methadone at Florida Detox. Dr. Spinogle and his staff were awesome. He has been to one outpatient and two inpatient treatment centers including a halfway house. He has had very difficult struggle. However, Dr. Spinogle’s resident psychologist correctly diagnosed him with ADHD which had previously gone undiagnosed. He has since been to the Amen clinic in Reston Virginia shere the diagnosis was confirmed. At that time he started on Adderall which he is still taking regularly. His drug cravings are gone, and he is finishing up his college degree. Our experience with Florida was a very positive one, and I would glady refer anyone there for opiate detox. Thanks you for giving me the opportunity to share. |
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| Methadone and Xanax (originally posted at heroindetox.com) | |
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| 8string New MemberUSA 1 Posts Posted – Aug 14 2007 : 2:45:30 PM ——————————————————————————–This is how things developed for me with Rapid Detox. It is lengthy, but worth the read. I hope it is helpful, particularly if you are considering stopping the use of methadone, or other opiates.I was on Methadone for 2 years, at 90 mgs per day, and 3 mg of xanax per day. The methadone was for pain management after 2 back surgeries, and the xanax due to stress. I was on percocet for two years prior to the methadone. My back finally started hurting less earlier this year. EMPHASIS ADDED I had tried to wean off methadone and xanax, but it was a constant battle, with no success, and my dependency had left me in a very worried state, both for my health, mental clarity, and paranoia of not having methadone, and the possiblilty of suffering withdrawal symptoms. I also was having side effects from the drugs that were as bad as the symptoms that caused me to take the drugs years earlier. I was getting no where, yet my back was healed. I was left with a drug dependency, nice word for addiction, without debate of word definitions to “make it feel” ok. I researched the web, checked groups like this, called rapid detox centers (hospitals, clinics (mostly clinics)). The clinics scared me. I decided that I would not subject myself and my family to the risks of a clinic, and particularly the ones that send you to a hotel the next day. I decided it was going to have to be done in a fully accredited, operational hospital, and that they had to include enough post procedure days for me to feel comfortable. I narrowed it down to a Detox, in Florida. I checked in on July 9th. The first day I attended a seminar that the Dr conducted. The room was full, with well over 50 people from all over the area, to hear what he had to say about the effects of all types of drugs, and alcohol, on the brain. He did a great job of explaining this, better than anything I’d been told. They had me relax in my hospital bed the rest of the day. My wife stayed with me every day from morning to night. I was set up with an IV, and stayed on my methadone and xanax right up to the procedure, so I didn’t have to feel any withdrawal. They put me under anesthesia that night. I woke up 36 hours later, and asked when they were going to start. I had no idea it was done already. They kept me pretty medicated till Thursday. The staff was more than GREAT. Thank God for such talented, caring people. There were about four other patients undergoing the same procedure in other hospital rooms. The Detox Center is on a floor of their own in the Hospital. I was released on Friday, and followed a tapering plan on several medications, including Subutex, so that I wouldn’t feel any symptoms as I adjusted to life without methadone and xanax. It is now August 14th, 5 weeks later, and this will be the last week of the medications for symptoms. I have only had to call Florida Detox two times in the 5 weeks, due to minor withdrawal feelings. They were prompt, and told me what to do to feel better. I never once had nausea, or anything as close as some of the bad feelings I had while on the drugs. I cannot express how happy and how good I feel now. My clarity is back, and I have optimism again. The chains have been broken, and I look forward to the rest of my life. My family keeps saying that “the old Guy is back. They now can finally talk about the concerns they have had over the last five years (I was on percocet for over two years before the methadone). There were times when I would doze off during conversations, due to the combination of methadone and xanax. I feel better than I have in years, and wouldn’t trade this for all the drugs in the world. I am free again. Please feel free to email me if I can answer any questions about my experience. I hope this helps someone. Guy |
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